India, France elevate ties to Special Global Strategic Partnership

TDT | agencies

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron have agreed to elevate bilateral relations to a Special Global Strategic Partnership, signalling a significant expansion of cooperation between the two countries.

In a post on X following talks with Macron, Modi described the discussions as “exceptionally productive” and said the decision reflected the longstanding friendship between India and France.

The leaders discussed ways to deepen cooperation in key sectors including defence, technology, space, security, counter-terrorism and innovation. They also reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening collaboration in emerging and strategic technologies.

Modi said India and France would continue working together to boost economic ties, noting that the proposed India-European Union free trade agreement would provide “unparalleled momentum” to bilateral economic cooperation.

The two countries are also launching an Economic Security Dialogue aimed at building more resilient supply chains for critical minerals and advanced technologies. Healthcare and education were identified as additional areas for closer collaboration.

The announcement underscores the growing convergence between India and France on economic, technological, security and global issues, further cementing one of New Delhi’s most important strategic partnerships in Europe.